Examine the impact of widespread deforestation and clearcutting on environments. How can the effects of deforestation be lessened?

Answer:

Responses may vary but should include some or all of the following information: There are many obvious consequences of deforestation and clearcutting, such as the loss of habitats for plant and animal species and the declining vitality of natural oxygen producers. Forests play an important role in cleaning and protecting the atmosphere. There are also less obvious consequences of deforestation and clearcutting. When forests are cleared the land is exposed to the elements – water, wind, ice – that cause erosion. Water is especially destructive to this cleared land because heavy rains wash away topsoil that can clog rivers and streams, causing flooding and the further loss of habitat. One important method of preventing the devastating effects of deforestation is reforestation. Reforestation is the replanting of trees to support forest growth in areas that have been cleared.